Microsoft intros Wireless Mobile Mouse 4000
updated 12:10 pm EDT, Thu June 18, 2009
Microsoft intros mouse
Microsoft today marked the release of its newest portable wireless mouse meant for netbook users, the Wireless Mobile Mouse 4000, which uses the company's BlueTrack technology. Like higher-end devices, the mouse's blue tracker laser is said to perform equally well on smooth surfaces such as granite or uneven ones including carpet and unfinished wood. The 2.4GHz Nano USB transceiver sticks out less than 0.4 inches from a notebook, making it possible to keep the adapter plugged in while traveling.
The Nano transceiver can also be stored on the underside of the ambidextrous mouse in a dedicated compartment. When it is clicked into place in the mouse, it turns off the power to conserve the single AA battery's life. A two-color battery life indicator warns users of a low charge. Wireless range is set at a maximum of 15 feet. On Windows Vista and 7 systems, a dedicated button accesses Windows Flip.
Available in black, lime, pink, white and blue, the Wireless Mobile Mouse 4000 will be priced at $40 when it launches in August.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Jul 2006
Pity Windows users
Pity the poor Windows users, who have to klutz with a USB dongle because PCs don't always come with Bluetooth. Lose the tiny thing, and your mouse is worthless.
Bluetooth is one of the advantages to paying the "Mac tax." I use a Bluetooth Microsoft mouse with my MacBook that works quite well except for one nuisance. Microsoft forgot to include a power switch. Since movement seems to turn it on, I wonder what mischief it may be up to while I'm traveling.